How To Know If You Should Replace Your Dryer: 10 Steps - WikiHow

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Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow How to Know if You Should Replace Your Dryer PDF download Download Article Explore this Article parts 1 Diagnosing Problems with Your Dryer 2 Deciding Whether to Replace Your Dryer 3 Buying a New Dryer Other Sections Expert Q&A Tips and Warnings Related Articles References Article Summary Co-authored by Gevorg Grigorian

Last Updated: December 26, 2024 Approved

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This article was co-authored by Gevorg Grigorian. Gevorg Grigorian is an Appliance Repair Specialist and the Owner of G and R Appliance Repair in Los Angeles, California. With over 15 years of experience, Gevorg specializes in residential and commercial appliance repairs as well as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) services. Gevorg holds a BS in Business Administration and Management from California State University-Northridge. There are 12 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. In this case, 90% of readers who voted found the article helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 113,295 times.

The washer and dryer are among the most frequently used appliances in most households. If you've recently begun to experience performance issues with your dryer, it may be time to start shopping for a new one. But before you drop the money for an entirely new unit, it's a good idea to find out for sure whether your dryer is nearing the end of its lifespan. You can do this by inspecting it for specific problems and weighing the cost of repairs against the cost of replacement.

Steps

Part 1 Part 1 of 3:

Diagnosing Problems with Your Dryer

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  1. Step 1 Observe your dryer's efficiency. 1 Observe your dryer's efficiency. The best way to tell if the appliance might be on its last legs is to simply see whether it's doing its job properly. Start paying close attention to how your appliance is working. If your clothes are coming out damp, for instance, it might mean that they just need a little more drying time, or it could indicate a problem with the dryer's heating elements.
    • Look for recurring issues that point to a specific flaw in the unit itself.
    • Failure to start, erratic drum rotation or a tendency to shut off mid-cycle are all common (and potentially serious) dryer issues.[1]
  2. Step 2 Pay attention to strange sounds and smells. 2 Pay attention to strange sounds and smells. Squealing or banging noises may be a sign that one of the unit's key mechanical components, such as the drum belt or rollers, is wearing out. Similarly, a burning smell could indicate that the dryer is overheating.[2]
    • For the most part, your dryer should not make any noises or give off any smells other than those associated with the normal drying cycle.
    • If left unaddressed, problems like overheating can quickly lead to safety hazards.
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  3. Step 3 Confirm that it's actually broken. 3 Confirm that it's actually broken. Inspect all the dryer's main components (including the drum, lint trap, dials or display and wall outlet) to see if another factor might be the cause. For instance, bad wiring can prevent a perfectly good dryer from turning on, and regular overheating could be the result of a clogged lint trap.[3]
    • Seemingly serious problems sometimes have simple explanations.
    • Make sure you've exhausted every other possible option before shelling out the money for expensive repairs.
  4. Step 4 Take the age of the unit into account. 4 Take the age of the unit into account.[4] Most dryers typically last somewhere between 10-13 years, according to consumer reports. If your dryer is approaching the 10 year mark, it may be a good idea to consider replacing it even if you haven't experienced any major performance issues yet. By springing for an updated model, you'll get a better return for your investment.[5]
    • While the quality will decline eventually, older dryers tend to last longer than newer dryers.[6]
    • Older dryers also tend to have parts that are less expensive to replace.[7]
    • It may help to look up consumer reviews on the internet to learn what other owners have to say about the longevity of your particular dryer model.[8]
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Part 2 Part 2 of 3:

Deciding Whether to Replace Your Dryer

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  1. Step 1 Find out if your appliance is under warranty. 1 Find out if your appliance is under warranty. Some washers and dryers come with guarantees from the manufacturer that the unit will function correctly for a certain number of years. If your dryer is under warranty, the company may cover the cost of a repair or replacement for issues that pop up within the time frame specified. This will be the cheapest and simplest way to get your dryer back in good working order.[9]
    • Review the paperwork that came with your unit to see if it includes warranty information.
    • You might also be able to get an answer by calling a company representative directly.
  2. Step 2 Follow the “50% rule.” 2 Follow the “50% rule.” If your dryer is more than 50% through its lifespan and is estimated to cost more than 50% of its original price to repair, you'll probably be better off buying a new one. This so-called 50% rule can be very useful in helping buyers decide whether to have older appliances repaired or replaced.[10]
    • The 50% rule doesn't always account for things like fluke breakdowns, but is more geared toward general deterioration.
  3. Step 3 See if the dryer can be repaired. 3 See if the dryer can be repaired. If you feel confident with a tool set, you might be able to make the necessary adjustments yourself. If not, call a handyman to come and take a look at the dryer's potential problem areas. Repairing an appliance will almost always be far cheaper than replacing it.[11]
    • Important pieces like the heating elements, drum belt, and timer tend to be costly and labor intensive to replace.[12] Don't try to save a dead dryer if it's going to be a bigger financial commitment than upgrading to a new one.[13]
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Part 3 Part 3 of 3:

Buying a New Dryer

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  1. Step 1 Compare the prices of newer models. 1 Compare the prices of newer models. Once you've made the decision to buy a new dryer, the next step is to find one that fits within your price range. Research your options, looking at the least expensive models first, then work your way up from there. Finding a dryer similar to the one you've been using can be a good place to start.[14]
    • Appliances vary in price from affordable basic units to more deluxe styles equipped with a host of sophisticated features.[15]
    • Come up with a budget that you'd be willing and able to spend, and stick that number to make the most economical purchase possible.
  2. Step 2 Look for a dryer that suits your needs. 2 Look for a dryer that suits your needs. Now may be a good time to invest in features that your previous model lacked. Newer appliances boast customizable settings, higher loading capacities and even energy efficient drying modes that can all make your life easier, especially if you're used to dealing with an unreliable unit. These types of added conveniences usually justify a slightly higher price point.[16]
    • While you're shopping around, size up different models to make sure they'll fit comfortably in the space you have.
    • Choose from various colors and finishes and settle on one that you like.
  3. Step 3 Match your new dryer with your washing machine. 3 Match your new dryer with your washing machine. Assuming you're only replacing your dryer, you'll want to pick out one that's consistent with the look of your current washer. Both appliances should be roughly the same size so that you can place them close together without creating an obstruction. Sticking to the same color scheme and general construction will also keep mismatched units from being so obvious.[17]
    • It's important to choose appliances with similar capacities—the dryer should be able to hold the washing machine's maximum load size.
    • If you have the space, consider buying a washer/dryer combo. That way, your appliances will match, and you can be sure that they'll both stay in good working order for years to come.[18]
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Expert Q&A

Search Add New Question
  • Question The timer on my dryer is going, should I replace it or repair it? Gevorg Grigorian Gevorg Grigorian Appliance Repair Expert Gevorg Grigorian is an Appliance Repair Specialist and the Owner of G and R Appliance Repair in Los Angeles, California. With over 15 years of experience, Gevorg specializes in residential and commercial appliance repairs as well as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) services. Gevorg holds a BS in Business Administration and Management from California State University-Northridge. Gevorg Grigorian Gevorg Grigorian Appliance Repair Expert Expert Answer Timers can be pricey to repair. You may be better off just replacing your dryer. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 0 Helpful 5
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Tips

  • Clean out your dryer's housing, hoses and lint trap regularly to keep it running smoothly and increase its lifespan. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
  • If you've had to have your dryer repaired more than about twice in two years, there's a good chance it won't last much longer. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
  • The price tag on an energy efficient dryer model may be higher, but it can end up saving you money in the long run. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
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Warnings

  • Make sure the dryer is turned off and unplugged before attempting to make any repairs yourself. Otherwise, you risk burns, electrical shock or other injuries. Thanks Helpful 5 Not Helpful 0
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References

  1. ↑ https://www.searshomeservices.com/blog/5-most-common-dryer-problems-solutions
  2. ↑ https://dengarden.com/appliances/Clothes-Dryer-Repair-and-Common-Problems
  3. ↑ https://www.houselogic.com/organize-maintain/home-maintenance-tips/when-to-repair-or-replace-large-appliances/
  4. ↑ Gevorg Grigorian. Appliance Repair Expert. Expert Interview
  5. ↑ https://www.moneypit.com/when-replace-your-washer-or-dryer/
  6. ↑ Gevorg Grigorian. Appliance Repair Expert. Expert Interview
  7. ↑ Gevorg Grigorian. Appliance Repair Expert. Expert Interview
  8. ↑ https://www.consumerreports.org/appliances/clothes-dryers/
  9. ↑ https://www.angieslist.com/articles/should-i-repair-or-replace-my-broken-appliance.htm
More References (9)
  1. ↑ https://www.houselogic.com/organize-maintain/home-maintenance-tips/when-to-repair-or-replace-large-appliances/
  2. ↑ https://www.houselogic.com/organize-maintain/home-maintenance-tips/when-to-repair-or-replace-large-appliances/
  3. ↑ Gevorg Grigorian. Appliance Repair Expert. Expert Interview
  4. ↑ https://dengarden.com/appliances/Clothes-Dryer-Repair-and-Common-Problems
  5. ↑ https://www.houselogic.com/by-room/bathroom-laundry/clothes-dryer-buyers-guide/
  6. ↑ https://www.consumerreports.org/appliances/washing-machines/buying-a-washing-machine-insider-tips-a9081784190/
  7. ↑ https://www.cnet.com/topics/dryers/buying-guide/
  8. ↑ http://www.warnersstellian.com/dryer-buying-guide/
  9. ↑ https://learn.compactappliance.com/what-are-the-benefits-of-a-combo-washer-dryer/

About This Article

Gevorg Grigorian Co-authored by: Gevorg Grigorian Appliance Repair Expert This article was co-authored by Gevorg Grigorian. Gevorg Grigorian is an Appliance Repair Specialist and the Owner of G and R Appliance Repair in Los Angeles, California. With over 15 years of experience, Gevorg specializes in residential and commercial appliance repairs as well as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) services. Gevorg holds a BS in Business Administration and Management from California State University-Northridge. This article has been viewed 113,295 times. 41 votes - 90% Co-authors: 7 Updated: December 26, 2024 Views: 113,295 Categories: Washing Machines and Dryers Article SummaryX

If your dryer isn’t drying properly, is making strange noises or smells, or is otherwise faulty, you’ll have the choice of repairing or replacing it. Repairing your dryer is nearly always cheaper than buying a new one. However, if your dryer is around 10 years old, it’s probably better to replace it if you can afford to, since it may be near the end of its life anyway. As a general rule of thumb, if your dryer’s over 5 years old and it’ll cost more than 50 percent of its cost to repair it, you’re probably better off replacing it. If you got your dryer recently, see if you kept its warranty, since you might be able to get it repaired for free. For more tips, including how to choose a new dryer, read on! Did this summary help you?YesNo

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Reader Success Stories

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    May 1, 2023

    "My dryer is malfunctioning and I'm considering replacing it. My dryer is about 15 years old, and this article..." more
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Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Gevorg Grigorian Co-authored by: Gevorg Grigorian Appliance Repair Expert Co-authors: 7 Updated: December 26, 2024 Views: 113,295 90% of readers found this article helpful. 41 votes - 90% Click a star to add your vote Anonymous

Anonymous

May 1, 2023

"My dryer is malfunctioning and I'm considering replacing it. My dryer is about 15 years old, and this article..." more Captain Princess

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Mar 27, 2020

"I have never heard of the "50% rule"! That is a wonderful rule of thumb! I am gonna keep it in mind for..." more Wanda Malloris

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"I inquired about the lifespan of a dryer, and your article was very informational beyond answering my question!..." more Anonymous

Anonymous

May 7, 2024

"This story was very helpful. It gave me some good guidelines on both purchasing and/or repairing the dryer." Eva M. Muschket

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May 29, 2019

"You showed me how the heater is removed and how to put the new one in! Thanks!" Share yours! More success stories Hide success stories

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